WhatsApp is testing a new scam alert feature that uses on-device AI to spot possible chat scams. The feature started a limited rollout in August 2026 for selected users, focusing on suspicious messages from unknown contacts.
scam alert checks messages directly on the phone instead of sending chat content to Meta servers. The feature aims to catch scams while keeping WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption in place.
Meta said, “No message content leaves the device for classification or is auto-reported to WhatsApp, Meta, or anyone else.”
The feature downloads a small AI model onto the phone after activation. The model checks the way a conversation develops and looks for signs linked to common scams.
scam alert focuses on messages from people who are not saved in the contact list. It can spot signs linked to fake offers, payment requests, and other fraud attempts.
A warning appears inside the chat when the system finds a possible scam. Only the recipient can see the warning, while the sender remains unaware.
The feature also gives several options after a warning appears. Recipients can block the contact, report the chat, continue the conversation, or mark it as trusted.
WhatsApp has made scam alerts optional during the testing stage. The company also says the system does not automatically report flagged messages to Meta.
The feature could help in India, where scammers often use WhatsApp for payment fraud and fake identity scams. Digital payment users face frequent attempts to create urgency and pressure.
Scam alert still needs wider testing before reaching more users. The system could also flag genuine messages from unfamiliar businesses or contacts.
WhatsApp plans to study the feature’s accuracy and performance during the limited rollout. The testing will help determine how widely scam alerts become available.
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